The process is not always pretty, but it soon will be all over but the vote-counting, the concessions and the victory speeches.

Today, nearly three-quarters of registered voters are expected to participate in the decision-making process that characterizes us as a free people.

Voter turnout predictions from state and county election authorities are nearly identical. Cole County Clerk Marvin Register has forecast 73 percent turnout, slightly higher than the 72 percent predicted by Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan. Her number translates into more than 3 million of Missouri’s 4,190,9326 registered voters casting ballots today.

Participation is expected to be high because this is a presidential election. Missourians also will elect a U.S. senator, governor and four other executives, and lawmakers. County residents will elect commissioners and other office-holders.

Also to be decided are ballot issues, ranging from a statewide constitutional amendment to a Jefferson City annexation measure.

Polls will be open from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Because a high turnout is expected, election officials remind voters advance preparation will make the process more efficient for everyone.

If in doubt, voters may verify their registration, find their polling location, view a sample ballot and learn their options for acceptable voting identification by visiting www.GoVoteMissouri.com.

If voters remain undecided, they also may familiarize themselves with the candidates and issues by studying the Sunday Views section or one of the sample ballots published in the News Tribune, or check the summaries here online.

You’ve listened a long time. This is the day you get to be heard by casting your vote.

NewsTribune.com will post national, state and area election results as they become available this evening. And Wednesday's newspaper and e-Edition will feature additional reaction and analysis.